Epidemiology, Risk Factors, and Prophylaxis Use for Pneumocystis jirovecii Pneumonia in the Non-HIV Population: A Retrospective Study in Québec, Canada

Abstract

Background: Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PJP) remains a significant threat in immunocompromised cases. Recent data on epidemiology and risk factors for PJP in non-HIV cases are scarce, and guidelines on appropriate prophylaxis are lacking. Methods: In this multicenter retrospective trial, all non-HIV adult cases admitted to hospitals in Québec City, Canada, between January 2011 and January 2021 with a diagnosis of PJP were assessed for eligibility. Results: An overall 129 cases of PJP were included. More than two-thirds had an underlying hematologic disease or an autoimmune/inflammatory condition. Prior to diagnosis, 83.7% were taking corticosteroids, 71.3% immunosuppressive agents (alone or in combination with corticosteroids), and 62% both. A diagnosis of PJP was noted in 22 patients receiving corticosteroids for treatment <28 days. Two patients developed PJP while undergoing corticosteroid monotherapy at a mean daily prednisone-equivalent dose <20 mg/d; 4.7% of our cohort received a PJP prophylaxis. Current recommendations or accepted clinical practices for PJP prophylaxis would not have applied to 48.8% of our patients. Conclusions: The use of corticosteroids - in monotherapy or in coadministration with other immunosuppressive agents - remains the principal risk factor for PJP in the non-HIV population. Current prophylaxis guidelines and accepted practices are insufficient to adequately prevent PJP and need to be broadened and updated.